More than 150 hands-on workshops will cover organic gardening, cooking and food preservation, renewable energy, small-scale livestock, green building, DIY projects, natural health, green transportation, and related topics. Sustainable and rural lifestyle experts from across the country will lead the sessions.

Nationally known keynote speakers will offer attendees a broader perspective:

Actor, activist and author Ed Begley Jr. will share how he has “greened” his life and show how others can do the same. Begley’s presentation is sponsored by Envirolet.

Organic farmer and author Joel Salatin will offer advice for those interested in turning their part-time hobby farm into a full-time business but who are concerned about the logistics involved. Salatin’s Polyface Farm was featured in the documentary Food Inc.

Temple Grandin, PhD., draws upon a career as an animal scientist and her own experiences with autism to show how animals act, think and feel, and ways humans can treat them to prevent fear and stress.

Organic gardening expert and author Eliot Coleman will discuss the difficulties faced by small farmers and how all of them can be successfully overcome.

Woody Tasch, founder and director of Slow Money, will share how a network of investors, philanthropists, farmers, entrepreneurs, and concerned consumers has invested millions in small food enterprises, helping to rebuild the economy from the ground up.

In addition to workshops, the Fair will host a medicinal herb display, children’s activities, vendor and livestock demonstrations, a green shopping pavilion, and local and organic food options.

Edible Kansas City, Food Day KC 2013 and Slow Food KC will be present at the fair offering written materials, discussing food policies and eating real.

Adult tickets cost $25 for the weekend or $18 for a one-day pass in advance, or $35 and $25, respectively, at the gate. Children 17 and under get in free. To purchase advance tickets, go to www.MotherEarthNewsFair.com or call toll-free 800-234-3368.